Before you go on your next trip, make sure your home is in order. That means checking your locks and making sure no one can reach your valuables without being seen. It also means checking your security cameras and keeping a watchful eye out for anything suspicious. Don’t worry, though—your home doesn’t need to be perfect before you leave town. Here are some common mistakes you probably aren’t aware of that can make your home less safe when you’re not there.
Don’t use your home address when booking online.
This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s surprising how many people do this. Even if you always book your hotel or Airbnb using the address of your home, book your flights and make other reservations using your work address instead. That way, you’re less likely to have your home address show up in a booking search.
Lock up your luggage.
Locking your luggage is a great way to keep your valuables safe while traveling. Make sure you lock it up, though. More than one traveller has had their expensive laptop or camera broken open when the bag was left unattended in a hotel room or on a flight. The thief may have been a hotel housekeeper, airline employee, or fellow passenger. If you lock up your luggage, there’s a much lower risk of that happening to you.
Unplug electronics.
Your computer, phone, tablet, and other electronics all have batteries that can drain when they’re not in use. That means they’re drawing power when they’re shut off and could be a target for thieves. You should also unplug your electronics when you’re not using them. That means no laptop, phone, or tablet in the bedroom.
Keep your valuables in sight at all times.
Answer your phone when it rings, keep your eyes on your bag, and keep an eye on your home. That way, you can spot danger before it sneaks up on you. Don’t let anyone wander into your home who shouldn’t be there—and make sure you can see anyone who comes through your front door or driveway.
Be careful about what you post on social media.
Your social media accounts are just as much a part of your home as your ceiling is. You should keep them private, but that doesn’t mean you should hide them from prying eyes. Someone could be using social media to track your movements, so be careful about posting regular photos or updates.
Stay informed about scams and safety precautions.
As much as you might feel like you’re home free while on vacation, it’s important to remember that you’re still abroad. Make sure you stay up to date on scams and other safety precautions. That will help keep you safe, whether you’re in a country with a high crime rate or not.
Bottom line
Most people wouldn’t dream of leaving home with a broken lock or poor lighting, and you shouldn’t change a thing about your home when you travel. That said, you should keep in mind some special concerns. Security is especially important when you’re away from home. This can be done in a few different ways: – Create a routine of checking your home every few hours, just as you would do when you’re home. This helps you notice any problems, such as unusual activity, in the event of a break-in. – Secure your doors and windows. This not only keeps intruders out, but burglars from getting in, too. – Thoroughly investigate potential vacation rentals before you go. – Secure your valuables. Whether you take them with you or store them in your home, burglars will try to take them. Make sure they’re well secured. – Stay in contact with your family. Make sure to let them know you’re safe and let them know what you’re doing and where you’re going. These tips will keep you safe in any foreign country.
